Donovan: Durant not given minute restrictions after being cleared

Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Kevin Durant has not been given any minute restrictions after being cleared of a foot injury that prematurely ended his 2014-15 season, head coach Billy Donovan toldSports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix.

“Kevin, I think, is one of those guys who wants to be pushed and challenged and wants to get better. He’s got a real strong desire to improve. So, for me, I don't really worry about Kevin’s foot,” Donovan said adding, “I worry about trying to help him continue to grow and develop and help our team continue to grow and develop. I can play Kevin, there are no restrictions that they've [the team doctors] put on me.”

Donovan added that he does not ask Durant about his foot because he does not want to dwell on the injury. “I think Kevin's tired of talking about it because he is cleared,” Donovan said.

Durant missed the first 17 games of last season after undergoing surgery to repair a Jones fracture in his right foot. He then underwent surgery to relieve soreness in the same foot toward the end of February. In late March, the team announced that Durant would need bone graft surgery due to increased soreness and would be out for 4-6 months.

Durant was cleared for training camp in September. He has played in four games this preseason.

The former MVP was limited to just 27 games last season due to foot and ankle injuries. He averaged 25.4 points, 6.6. rebound, and 4.1 assists.